Stuffed Round Zucchini Delight

This recipe brings a vibrant twist to stuffed vegetables, combining the freshness and crunch of round zucchinis with a delightful mix of vegetables, cheese, and rice. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is both nutritious and flavorful. The combination of soft baked zucchini with a tangy and spicy filling creates a taste explosion. With the addition of cheese, the stuffing becomes creamy and rich, making for a satisfying meal. The use of wholesome ingredients such as carrots, bell peppers, and tomatoes ensures a healthy balance of nutrients. Eggs help to bind the stuffing, giving it a satisfying texture. The dish is colorful, appealing to both the eyes and the palate. It’s versatile and can easily be adapted to different dietary preferences. Overall, this stuffed zucchini recipe is a celebration of fresh ingredients and creative cooking.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

4 round zucchinis
3 onions
4 carrots
3 bell peppers
1 packet of cooked rice
4 eggs
Variety of greens
2 tomatoes
200 g cheese

Spices:

Salt
Pepper

Preparation Time

Total: 60 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Zucchinis: Cut off the tops of the zucchinis and scoop out the insides, leaving a sturdy shell. Set aside the pulp for later use.
Prep the Vegetables: Dice the onions, carrots, bell peppers, and tomatoes. Chop the variety of greens you have on hand.
Cook the Rice: Ensure the rice is cooked and fluffy. This will be the base of your stuffing.
Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pan, heat some oil and sauté onions until translucent. Add carrots, bell peppers, and the scoopings from the zucchinis. Cook until they start to soften.
Combine Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the sautéed vegetables, rice, and two-thirds of your cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
Add Eggs: Beat the eggs and pour them over the mixture for binding.
Stuff the Zucchinis: Fill each zucchini with the mixture. Press it down gently to pack in as much filling as possible.
Top with Tomato Slices: Place a slice or two of tomato on top of the stuffing for an added layer of flavor.
Add Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the tomatoes for a crusty top once baked.
Bake: Place the stuffed zucchinis in a preheated oven at 180°C (356°F) for about 30-40 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender and the cheese is golden.
Check for Doneness: Use a fork to test the tenderness of the zucchinis. They should be soft but not mushy.
Garnish: Before serving, garnish with fresh greens for a pop of color and freshness.
Serve: This dish can be enjoyed as a main course or a hearty side.

Tips

Substitutions: You can use quinoa or bulgur instead of rice for a different texture.
Vegetarian Version: This dish is naturally vegetarian, but you can add minced meat to the stuffing for additional protein.
Cheese Variation: Try different types of cheese like feta or mozzarella for varied flavors.

Nutrition

Calories: 350 per serving
Protein: 15g
Fats: 20g
Carbohydrates: 30g

Variations

Use red onions for a sweeter flavor.
Add mushrooms for an earthy taste.
Replace bell peppers with jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a fresh green salad.
Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Enjoy with a side of tzatziki sauce.

Best Places

Le Farmer’s Bistro - Known for its farm-to-table approach and innovative use of vegetables. Location: 45 Rue Oberkampf, Paris, France.
Green Kitchen - A popular spot for vegetarian delights with a creative twist on traditional dishes. Location: 112 Veggie Avenue, London, UK.
The Zucchini Zone - Celebrated for its extensive zucchini-based menu. Location: 789 Veg Lane, New York, USA.
Garden Fresh Café - Offers a wide range of stuffed vegetable dishes, perfect for health-conscious diners. Location: 9 Plant Street, Sydney, Australia.
Mediterranean Flavor - Specializes in Mediterranean-style stuffed vegetables with rich herb flavors. Location: 22 Olive Road, Athens, Greece.
Veggie Haven - Known for its flavorful vegetarian and vegan dishes. Location: 33 Green Path, Berlin, Germany.
Café Aroma - A quaint café that focuses on seasonal, locally-sourced produce. Location: 58 Bloom Street, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Flavor Junction - Offers a fusion of global cuisines with an emphasis on fresh produce. Location: 16 Spice Alley, Mumbai, India.
Harvest Moon - Combines rustic charm with innovative cooking techniques. Location: 101 Moonlight Drive, Cape Town, South Africa.
Sunshine Deli - A vibrant deli that celebrates vegetable-centric cuisine. Location: 67 Sunshine Blvd, Toronto, Canada.